18 months ago, Abdukodir Khusanov, an illustrious unknown, arrived in Lens from Minsk, in exchange for compensation of 100,000 euros. A trifle on the transfer market. In this winter of 2025, here is the 20-year-old Uzbek ready to take off. Everything is set for an official commitment of the person concerned to Manchester City.
At the start of next week, the talented international defender will arrive in the north of England to undergo his medical examination and subsequently sign a long-term contract. This with the assurance for RC Lens of hitting a big jackpot. A deal worth 50 million euros, including bonus, being announced between the two clubs concerned.
The 3e most expensive L1 defender in history
By recovering 500 times their stake for a player who will have worn the Sang et Or jersey in 31 surprises, the Artésiens can certainly rub their hands; and this despite the loss of an element that has become important for the squad over the weeks. A boon made possible thanks to the defensive difficulties encountered this season by Pep Guardiola’s Cityzens, who were ready to do anything this winter to strengthen their rear.
Abdukodir Khusanov gained momentum this season by taking advantage of very special circumstances – in this case the aborted transfer of Kevin Danso to Roma (for a minor heart anomaly). With this transfer, he becomes the third most expensive Ligue 1 defender in history, after Leny Yoro (62 million euros) and Benjamin Mendy (57.50 million euros).
